Valencia boss Nuno Espirito Santo says that missing out on a Champions League place this season would constitute failure.
Los Che are currently fourth in the table, one point ahead of next-placed Sevilla, and Nuno feels he has a squad at Mestalla that is capable of improving and even fighting for the title in the not too distant future.
“Not qualifying for the Champions League this year would be a failure. We have to qualify for it and we have the squad to do it,” he told Radio Marca’s ‘Intermedio’ programme.
“I think the continuity of the squad is also key in fighting for the League and in two or three years we could be doing that, it all depends.
“We have a set of young players and in six months’ time they will have improved a lot. With that continuity, along with a few tweaks, we can fight for the title.
“The supporters need to have maximum confidence in our project as we continue to grow. Valencia is for the Valencia fans and right now the idea is to reinforce.
“If [owner] Peter Lim and [President] Amadeo Salvo work together then we can relax.”
The Portuguese former goalkeeper also spoke about this weekend’s game with Barcelona as well as the recent talk concerning his contract renewal.
“We know how to cause Barcelona problems and on Thursday the players will know. I’m confident of winning and we are now gaining respect from those who doubted us.
“As for my renovation, on my part it is very simple. They only have to say to me ‘when do I have to sign?’ and that’s what I’ll do.
“I’m a genuine person. I enjoy it with the players and being with the team. When you see me go running onto the pitch it’s because I can’t help myself,” he explained.
